Domestic/Dating Violence

Dating or Domestic violence is a pattern of controlling or coercive behavior by one individual to maintain power and control over another in an intimate relationship. It can be physical, which is what most people think about, but it can also include emotional, sexual or economic abuse. It includes the use of intimidation, threats and isolating behaviors. Technology can play a large role in dating or domestic violence. If there is no intervention, the violence or abuse may escalate over time, both in frequency and severity.

The terms dating and domestic violence are essentially interchangeable under NJ law. The term “dating” violence typically refers to “younger” people who are not married.

It is important to note that NJ law does not strictly define “dating relationship”, meaning that there is no set time limit for how long a couple must have been dating in order for the victim to seek relief under the law.